Have you ever started a diet or exercise program but didn’t stick with it? If you’re like many people, you set out with the best intentions but failed to keep the momentum going.
We studied the basics of habit formation to come up with 4 simple steps to conquer your goal. Here’s how you can build healthy habits:
- Determine your Reason. You have to want it! Starting a new habit works best when you get something out of it. Maybe you crave that squeaky clean feeling your teeth experience after your dental routine or perhaps you’re looking to meet The One and know that your smile and oral health are key to attraction and kissability.
- Create a Cue. Habits are triggered by a cue in response to an action, like buckling up after getting in the car. You can try using part of your bedtime routine as a cue. For example, washing your face can be the cue to brush and floss. The cue you create will begin to automatically trigger the action you want to form, and continued performance will eventually create a habit.
- Eliminate the Pressure. Flossing daily may be the goal, but remembering to do so can be hard at first. Start by flossing once a week, and then work up to daily. You might experience the desire to floss more often after you do it a few times, which will motivate you to floss every day.
- Make it Fun. If you don’t enjoy doing something, you aren’t going to stick with it. Find ways to make maintaining good oral health habits as enjoyable as possible—maybe play your favorite song to ensure you brush for the full two minutes or choose a try cupcake dental floss to satisfy your sweet tooth and encourage you to floss daily. Even if someone has braces, maintaining oral hygiene is just as important.
By using these steps to create a habit, you’ll be well on your way to success. Once the habit is formed, you’ll reap the rewards and have the confidence to tackle even bigger changes that can truly transform your well-being.
